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America and rural telecom co-ops are at crossroads

One year ago, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act directed more than $7 billion to the U.S. departments of Agriculture and Commerce. They were tasked with funding projects to extend broadband service to unserved and underserved areas.

Stimulus funding would leverage taxpayer money with private funds and spur investments in technology, networks, and infrastructure. It would create jobs, kick start economic development, and provide long-term benefits to consumers.

A third agency, the Federal Communications Commission or FCC was tapped to analyze broadband data and to draft a National Broadband Plan.

On March 16, the FCC delivered its national broadband vision to Congress.

Bonnie Lorang is general manager for the Montana Independent Telecommunications Systems http://www.mitstel.com/ . MITS provides professional services for Montana rural telecommunications providers including Triangle Communications, Nemont Communications, Northern Telephone, InterBel Telephone and Mid-Rivers Communications.

Full Story: http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20100419/OPINION/4190303/1014/America-and-rural-telecom-co-ops-are-at-crossroads

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